Sources

Comments

Alta Vista Bridge

Posted December 20, 2010, by Matthew Lohry

But, in this case, the NBI info was FAR more accurate than yours--it at least had the right county! Even if there are errors in the NBI, they are usually quite minor, and it is no excuse for not importing it when listing the bridges. It's a simple matter of finding the bridge you want to add (which is in the NBI 100% of the time if it is still open to traffic) and hitting "import". It is easier than doing it your way, which should only be done if bridges are abandoned, part of "rail-trail" systems, or other conversions that would warrant it being removed from the NBI. I have found it to be accurate with almost all of the bridges I have added to this website. Additionally, it makes it much easier and less time-intrusive for others who use the website for research purposes.

Yes, the NBI is a great resource. If an individual listing does contain an obvious error (ie, listing a pin-connected Bedstead as being built in 1964), we can discuss that when the information is uploaded.

Most railroad bridges, and some long-abandoned or long-lost bridges will not have an NBI listing, but if the information is available, then by all means please incorporate it. If anybody has any questions about how to import, any of us beta users can advise.

This would be a good "lesson learned" as to why it is so important to import NBI information on any bridge that is placed on Bridgehunter: This bridge is in Morris County, not Wabaunsee County as you have listed. I thought that the bridge had very interesting railings, and so I went to import the NBI data to find out the build year and bridge type. It is a concrete slab built in 1957, so not very historically significant, but the railings are noteworthy as a railing type that has not been used for decades. The ends of the railings curve away from the roadway to follow the wingwalls, which adds a nicely aesthetic touch. As a note, if the bridge were located only 320 feet east of where it is now, it would be in Wabaunsee County! This is why it is vitally important to list bridges by importing NBI info! :>)